Chris Harrison issued an apology after he seemingly defended Rachael Kirkconnell about the racism issue plaguing her and after many called him out for it.
Chris Harrison addressed the controversy plaguing him after he commented about the controversy involving Rachael Kirkconnell in his interview with Rachael Lindsay. Harrison was sorry because he realized his statement perpetuated racism.
Charis Harrison apologized for remarks during an interview
Chris Harrison took to Instagram and released a statement after he received an intense backlash following his interview with Rachael Lindsay. The Bachelor host owned his mistake and extended his sincere apology.
He also acknowledged the incredible platform that gives him the opportunity to speak about love. However, he took a stance on topics that he admitted he lacked knowledge about.
“While I do not speak for Rachael Kirkconnell, my intentions were simply to ask for grace in offering her an opportunity to speak on her own behalf. What I now realize I have done is cause harm by wrongly speaking in a manner that perpetuates racism, and for that, I am so deeply sorry,” he wrote.
Harrison also apologized to his dear friend and Bachelorette star Rachael Lindsay. He admitted to not listening to her on topics she has a first-hand understanding of. He thanked the Bachelor Nation for reaching out to him and holding him accountable. Harrison concluded his statement by promising to do better.
What happened before Chris and Rachael’s interview
Bachelor contestant Rachael Kirkconnell came under fire when the reality show starring Matt James premiered. A TikTok user alleged she was racist in high school. Aside from allegedly liking offensive posts, a photo of Kirkconnell and her sorority sisters at a plantation-themed frat party resurfaced, Us Weekly reported.
Rachael Lindsay, the first Black Bachelorette, asked the host about the issue on Extra. He seemingly defended Kirkconnell by telling the people to have a little grace, understanding, and compassion.
Lindsay asked Harrison why Kirkconnell hasn’t addressed the issue, and he said it was a “slippery slope.”
“When you are trying to react to something on social media, there is no grace … I’m just going to give her the grace and the time to actually come out and speak,” he concluded.
Despite his apology, some critics want him out from the Bachelor Nation franchise. A petition started by Luan Martinez has already received almost 18,000 signatures. According to the petition, Harrison has a history of misogyny and racist behavior. It also alleged that the popular host has a racist-sympathizing behavior.
Image used courtesy of ExtraTV/YouTube Screenshot